Mr Timms will join the Traidcraft Foundation, which is responsible for guarding the vision, mission and principles of Traidcraft. The Foundation also ensures that external stakeholders are represented in Traidcraft’s social accounts, and has the power of veto on the election of directors to its trading company, Traidcraft plc.
Stephen has been the Member of Parliament for East Ham since 1994. He was formerly a Cabinet Minister and Financial Secretary to the Treasury. He was also the first ever Labour Party Vice Chair for Faith Groups, and is presently working with different faith communities across the country.
Stephen Timms says: “I am delighted to be joining the Traidcraft Foundation as a trustee. I have long been an admirer and supporter of Traidcraft and its mission of fighting poverty through trade as a Christian organisation. I look forward to ensuring the interests of Traidcraft are protected and supporting its work in the years ahead.”
The chair of the Traidcraft Foundation is Reg Bailey, the chief executive of international Christian organisation the Mothers’ Union, which has four million members in 81 countries across the world.
Reg Bailey says: “With his wealth of experience, both in Government and in working with faith communities, Stephen will be a great asset to the Traidcraft Foundation as it continues to guide Traidcraft’s vital work.”
Professor Michael Northcott has been reappointed as a trustee. He is Reader in Christian Ethics at the School of Divinity of Edinburgh University, and speaks and writes widely on ethics and current affairs. His work also focuses on the ethics of environmental issues and climate change.
Chris Stephens, chairman of Traidcraft plc, adds: “To attract an individual of such skill and experience to Traidcraft is a testament to the organisation's reputation for fighting poverty in the developing world. The Foundation is essential in helping Traidcraft’s trading company and charity to remain focused on their goals. Stephen’s appointment will strengthen the governance of our organisation and help us strategically and practically. I am also delighted that Michael Northcott has agreed to serve a second term as a trustee. His work relating to environmental issues will continue to be an asset to Traidcraft.”
